HeyRuaHow to say “acquaintance” in Irish
- Irish:
- aithne
- English:
- acquaintance, recognition, knowledge
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “AH-hin-yuh” /ˈahənʲə/
- Genitive singular:
- aithne, na haithne (e.g. tús na haithne, the beginning of the acquaintance)
What does “aithne” mean?
“Aithne” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- acquaintance
- Knowing a person or thing personally, used with 'ag' and 'ar': tá aithne agam air, I know him.Also: knowing, familiarity, know.
2 other meanings: recognition or knowledge
- 2recognition
- The act of recognizing someone or something; also used as a verbal noun of the verb 'aithin'.Also: recognizing, identification.
- 3knowledge
- Knowledge or understanding of something, such as a place or a subject.Also: understanding, familiarity.
Other Irish words for acquaintance: aithnid (acquaintance)
“Aithne” with the article
Here is aithne after the article (an t-alt).
“Aithne” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using aithne, the Irish word for acquaintance.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Acquaintance in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for acquaintance?
The Irish for acquaintance is aithne (pronounced “AH-hin-yuh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean recognition or knowledge.
How do you pronounce aithne in Irish?
Aithne is said like “AH-hin-yuh” (IPA /ˈahənʲə/).
Does aithne have a plural?
No plural form is given for aithne in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does aithne have more than one meaning?
Yes. Aithne can mean acquaintance, recognition or knowledge, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does aithne sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an aithne (the acquaintance), a haithne (her acquaintance), a n-aithne (their acquaintance).
What is the difference between 'aithne' and 'eolas'?
Use 'aithne' for knowing a person (tá aithne agam ar Mháire), and 'eolas' for knowing facts or information (tá eolas agam ar an stair).
How do I say 'to introduce' using aithne?
Use 'cuir in aithne': chuir sé in aithne dá mháthair mé, he introduced me to his mother.
